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Turn scrap cardboard into a simple, horizontal cat scratcher by cutting it into even strips and winding them tightly into a roll. Secure the growing roll with a screw, tape, or glue, then place it where your cat already likes to scratch. Catnip is optional.
What you need
- Scrap corrugated cardboard, such as a delivery box
- A ruler or tape measure and a marker
- A box cutter or utility knife
- A screw, tape, or glue to hold the roll together
- Catnip, if you want to try it
Make: describes a screw-secured version; tape or glue can be used instead. With glue, allow time for each layer to dry before adding the next. Woodgreen Pets Charity describes winding cardboard strips into a circle and securing the layers with duct tape. Neither source compares the methods’ durability. Make: project instructions; Woodgreen Pets Charity instructions.
Make the cardboard scratcher
- Measure and mark the strips. Choose a consistent strip width and mark a straight cutting line across the cardboard. Make: uses 3-inch increments in its example; you can choose a different width for your materials.
- Crease and cut. Roll and crease the cardboard along the marked line to make it easier to handle, then cut the strips with a box cutter or utility knife. Work on a stable, protected surface and keep your hands clear of the blade’s path; Regina Humane Society also advises taking proper precautions with cutting tools. Regina Humane Society’s cat-scratcher guidance.
- Start the center. Wind one strip tightly into a small coil. A snug center helps the finished board hold its shape.
- Secure the first coil and add strips. Make: secures the initial piece with a screw, then attaches another strip and continues the roll. Alternatively, wind the strips into a circle and hold the layers with duct tape as Woodgreen describes, or use glue and let each layer dry before continuing.
- Build to the size you want. Keep the roll tight as you add strips until the scratcher reaches your preferred diameter. Add catnip between layers if you want to try it; it is not required.
Choose the right spot and orientation
Scratching is normal feline behavior: it helps cats mark territory and shed claw sheaths. Watch where and how your cat scratches before deciding where to put the board. Cornell Feline Health Center notes that a cat that scratches horizontal carpet may be more likely to use a flattened cardboard box than a vertical scratcher. Place the new board near a favored scratching location, and make sure it stays sturdy rather than rocking or toppling. Rewarding use with attention, treats, or catnip may encourage a cat to investigate, but cats do not all respond to the same incentives. Cornell Feline Health Center guidance on destructive behavior.
Keep the expectations practical
This is a low-cost reuse project, not a guaranteed way to redirect every cat. A worn scratcher shows that it is being used; wear alone is not a reason to throw it away. If scratching becomes a serious behavior concern, Cornell advises that a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist may be appropriate. The Make: author reported spending $1.97 on screws for that particular project, but that is a historical anecdote, not a current or typical cost estimate.
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Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 3
Best Value
8 Packs in 1 Cat Scratch Pad, Cat Scratcher Cardboard,Reversible,Durable Recyclable Cardboard, Premium Scratch, Suitable for Cats to Rest, Grind Claws and Play
- Best size scratcher product. Size:16.8 x 8.5 x 1 inches
- Premium Material:Made by 100% eco-friendly recycled corrugated cardboard with non-toxic gluecontains and no harmful materials.Perfectly healthy for your adorable cats.
- Reversible For 2x Use: Build with a two-sided scratching pad,Higher density harden corrugated cardboard.Different touching experience makes cat scratching pad irresistible for the cats. More importantly with this design, it is 50% more durable than the normal ones.Reversible feature makes the scratching life last longer than most others.
- Great Value---The Scratcher Box is durable and 8 pieces Cat Scratching Pads are flipable use for better value
- A must-have cat scratcher to train your furry friend away from sofa, carpet and any other furniture
Rank #4
Kitty City XL 3-Pack Cat Scratcher Pads – Durable Corrugated Cardboard Scratch Pads with Catnip – Double-Sided for Longer Use, Cat Claw Maintenance & Furniture Protection, Cat Scratching - 10" x 18"
- KEEP YOUR CAT SCRATCHING SAFELY – Each 10” x 18” x 1.5” scratch pad fits neatly inside select Kitty City furniture or works perfectly as a standalone cardboard scratcher. Protect your furniture while letting your cat satisfy natural scratching instincts.
- INCLUDES 3 REFILL PADS WITH CATNIP – Fits neatly in select Kitty City furniture or works perfectly as standalone cardboard scratch pads. Comes with a bonus bag of catnip to sprinkle on top, to encourage your cat’s natural scratching instincts.
- PROMOTES HEALTHY CLAWS – Maintain your cat’s claw health while keeping them away from sofas, chairs, and other furniture. Regular scratching helps relieve stress and supports natural paw maintenance.
- DURABLE RECYCLED CORRUGATED CARDBOARD – Lightweight yet tough, each pad withstands repeated use. When worn, simply recycle for an eco-friendly solution to claw upkeep.
- VALUE PACK WITH DOUBLE-SIDED DESIGN – Double-sided for extended life. Flip over when one side wears down to maximize durability and clawing satisfaction.
Rank #3
Sale
SIDAZON Cat Scratching Board cat Scratcher Cat Scratch Pad Cardboard cat scratchers for Indoor Cats Reversible Large Wide Corrugated with Catnip(2pcs)
- 【PROTECT YOUR FURNITURE】:SIDAZON scratching pad provides cats an outlet to scratch, reducing unwanted scratching of other furniture
- 【ECO-FRIENDLY】:100% recycled corrugated cardboard and non-toxic glue are used to ensure there is no harmful material for your feline friends
- 【CURVED WAVE】:Curve designs make it easier for your cats to lie down and stretch their bodies while grinding their nails
- 【DOUBLE LIFE】:Built with high density harden corrugated cat scratcher cardboard, SIDAZON scratching pads can be used from both sides.Our Cat scratch pad makes the scratching life last longer than most others
- 【CATNIP】 :SIDAZON cat scratcher includes organic catnip to help raise your furry fellows' interest and keeps them joyful. Friendly reminder:Slight color variations may occur,whichi is normal.
Rank #2
Sale
TIMHAKA Cat Scratching Board, Corrugate Cat Scratcher for Indoor Cats with Catnip, Cat Scratch Pad with Premium Scratch Textures Design, Cardboard Cat Scratcher with Double-Sided Usability (Pack of 2)
- Cat Scratching Board, Corrugate Cat Scratcher for Indoor Cats with Catnip, Cat Scratch Pad with Premium Scratch Textures Design, Cardboard Cat Scratcher with Double-Sided
- 【Double Sided Cat Scratchers】The cat scratcher cardboard is reversible, so two sides can be scratched, making the cat scratching cardboard life last longer and more cost-effective
- 【Durable & Natural Material】Made of heavy duty corrugated and 100% recycled cardboard, so the cardboard cat scratcher is strong enough to resist the sharpest claws for a fair enough long time. It is also safe and non-toxic. Even the glue is environmentally friendly, perfectly healthy for your adorable cats
- 【A Must-Have Cat Scratching Board】It is necessary for your kitten or cats cause the scratch pads for cats are good for both of their physical and mental health. By daily scratching, cats sharpen their nails, keep the claws in proper shape and satisfy the scratching nature. It also doubles as a lounging spot for your cat
- 【Protect Your Furniture】This cat scratching pad can well attract the cats attention and place a right place for cats' scratching need to protect furniture from claw damage. It helps reduce furniture scratching, making it useful both for you and your cat. fits into any home decor. It protects your upholstery, screen doors, leather couch, car door panels and wood work from cat claw damage
#1 Best Overall
Sale
EHEYCIGA Cardboard Cat Scratcher for Indoor Cats, 26.8 Inch, Brown
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS: The surface of the cat scratching board is made of non-toxic and high-density corrugated paper, which is durable enough to withstand cat scratching.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Our cat scratcher for indoor cats features an L-shaped design. Please place it against wall and sofa to protect your furniture. The L-shaped cat scratcher provides more scratching area for cats to scratch in a variety of positions.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL USE: Cats can scratch, relax and stretch on our cardboard cat scratcher. Our cat scratch pad also comes with a toy ball to play with. It provides a safe and comfortable environment for cats.
- MULTIPLE SIZES: We offer three sizes of cat scratching pad for you to choose from. The smallest size is specially for kittens. No matter what size your cat is, it enables your cat to scratch and play to its heart's content!
- EASY INSTALLATION: Our cat scratching board adopts a simple installation method and comes with instructions and necessary tools. We also provide an installation video so that you can install it quickly and easily.
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